Zero alcohol limit for young drivers unlikely

Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick told MPs today that the whole question of drink-driving regulations was due to be the subject of a consultation process. But he added: "We will not recommend a reduction of, or a limitation of the drink-drive level."

Earlier this week England's chief medical officer Sir Liam Donaldson said the legal blood-alcohol level of 80mg should be cut to zero for drivers aged 17 to 20.

The zero rate for young drivers is in place in parts of Australia and the USA and Sir Liam said such a move in the UK would be a sensible public health measure.

Appearing before the House of Commons Transport Committee today, Mr Fitzpatrick said that he welcomed Sir Liam's contribution to the road safety debate even though Sir Liam's view was "not one shared" by the transport department.

He added: "Anything that gets road safety into the headlines is good news. If there is a debate about road safety then that is a good thing."

Mr Fitzpatrick went on to say there were bound to be "strong views" put forward during the drink-drive consultation.